Acne
Acne develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It can cause blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, or deeper painful bumps.
About acne
Acne develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It can cause blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, or deeper painful bumps.
What can cause it?
Acne forms when follicles become blocked by oil and dead skin cells and then become inflamed.
Hormones, family tendency, friction, oily products, stress, and some medicines can influence breakouts; acne is not caused by dirty skin.
What a patient may notice
Symptoms vary from person to person. Possible signs may include:
- Blackheads or whiteheads
- Red or pus-filled pimples
- Painful nodules or scarring
How clinicians find the cause
Diagnosis is usually based on skin examination and the type and severity of lesions. A clinician may review menstrual patterns, medicines, hair or skin products, and signs of hormonal imbalance.
Treatment and next steps
- 1
Mild acne may improve with nonprescription products, while inflammatory, scarring, or persistent acne may need prescription topical or oral medicine.
- 2
Treatment often requires consistent use for several weeks before improvement is clear.
- 3
Pregnancy or pregnancy plans affect which acne medicines are safe.
Supporting recovery
- Wash gently up to twice daily and after heavy sweating; avoid harsh scrubbing.
- Use noncomedogenic moisturizer, sunscreen, cosmetics, and hair products.
- Do not pick or squeeze lesions because this increases inflammation and scarring.
What to expect
Acne can usually be controlled, but improvement often requires consistent treatment for several weeks or months. Breakouts may return when treatment stops or triggers change. Early care for deep or painful acne can reduce permanent skin changes.
Possible complications
- Permanent pitted or raised scars
- Dark or red marks that remain after lesions heal
- Emotional distress, reduced confidence, anxiety, or depression
When to Contact a Medical Professional
A healthcare professional can confirm the cause, discuss appropriate testing, and create a treatment or prevention plan for you.
Get emergency help for severe trouble breathing, new chest pressure, fainting, seizure, sudden weakness on one side, uncontrolled bleeding, blue or gray lips, or a person who is difficult to wake.
Ways to lower risk
- Consistent skin care and early treatment can reduce new lesions and scarring.
- Clean items that contact the face, such as phones, helmet straps, and pillowcases.
Trusted health information
This CHS patient-education page uses original wording and links to MedlinePlus for additional information.